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At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826) to Thomas M. Randolph.

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00032 Author/Creator: Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826) Place Written: Washington Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 05 June 1805 Pagination: 1 p. 21 x 18 cm Order a Copy

A business letter concerning the management of Monticello while Jefferson served as president. Jefferson writes that he cannot increase an employee's wages from 60 pounds to 100, and asks Randolph to find a replacement. Thomas Randolph and Jefferson's daughter Martha married in 1790.

Notes: Not in Bergh. Randolph married Jefferson's daughter Martha.

Washington June 5. 05
Dear Sir
I received a letter yesterday from Lilly which gives me great disquietude. He has hitherto been on wages of £ 50. and £ 10. additional for the nailery. He writes me that he cannot stay after the present year for less than £ 100. Certainly I can never get a man who fulfills my purposes better than he does: and if a moderate advance, as from 60 to £ 75. would have sufficed, I would have given it. But to £ 100. is a larger jump than I am willing to take if I can find another who will answer my purposes. Do you know, or can you recollect one who would, and who could be got on Lilly's present allowance? I do not wish the least intimation of this matter to any mortal; and shall withhold answering Lilly till I hear from you. My tenderest affections to my dearest Martha & the family, and sincere attachment to yourself.
Th: Jefferson
T. M. Randolph

Randolph, Thomas M. (Thomas Mann), 1768-1828
Jefferson, Thomas, 1743-1826

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